This article explains how to set up and run an A/B test on email subject lines in your newsletters. A/B testing helps you automatically send the best-performing subject line to most of your audience, boosting open rates and engagement.
Before You Start
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You’ll need at least 400 audience members for A/B testing to work.
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A/B testing is currently available only for email subject lines (not preview text or newsletter content).
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The feature automatically splits your audience:
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25% receives the test (split between two subject lines).
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75% receives the winning subject line based on open rates.
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Step-by-Step Instructions
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Go to your Newsletter draft.
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From the left-hand menu, select Newsletters.
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Choose the draft you’d like to edit.
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Proceed to the Preview & Schedule step.
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Click Continue editing until you reach Step 2: Preview and Schedule.
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Enable A/B Testing.
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Toggle the switch next to Create A/B Test.
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Enter your subject lines.
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In the Email Subject fields, type two different subject line variations you want to test.
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Set your send details.
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Choose your Audience.
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Pick your Date and Time to send.
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(Optional) Send a test email before scheduling.
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Schedule your newsletter.
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Click Schedule.
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Letterhead will send the subject line variations to 25% of your audience, measure open rates, and automatically send the winning subject line to the remaining 75%.
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Reviewing Results
After your newsletter is sent, you can view the results in the Newsletter Metrics dashboard:
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See both subject lines with full text.
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A “winner” badge will mark the best performer.
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Metrics include:
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Opens (count)
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Open Rate (%)
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Recipients reached
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Troubleshooting / FAQs
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What happens if my audience is smaller than 400 members?
A/B testing requires at least 400 recipients. If your audience is smaller, the toggle won’t be available. -
Can I test more than two subject lines?
Not at this time. Each test supports two subject line variations. -
Where can I see past results?
Go to your Published Newsletter metrics. Each newsletter will display the A/B Test Results section if it includes a test.
Need Help?
If you have questions or need assistance, please contact our support team at support@tryletterhead.com or log a support ticket through the Help Center!